Synchronization-based topology identification of weighted general complex dynamical networks with time-varying coupling delay

Many existing papers investigated the geometric features, control and synchronization of complex dynamical networks provided with certain topology. However, the exact topology of a network is sometimes unknown or uncertain. Based on LaSalle’s invariance principle, we propose an adaptive feedback technique to identify the exact topology of a weighted general complex dynamical network model with time-varying coupling delay. By receiving the network nodes evolution, the topology of such a kind of network with identical or different nodes, or even with varying topology can be monitored. In comparison with previous methods, time delay is taken into account in this simple, analytical and systematic synchronization-based technique. Particularly, the weight configuration matrix is not necessarily symmetric or irreducible, and the inner-coupling matrix need not be symmetric. Illustrative simulations are provided to verify the correctness and effectiveness of the proposed scheme.